Rabies Breakout In Malaysia: Rabies Prevention For Pets

Rabies Breakout In Malaysia: Rabies Prevention For Pets

Rabies has become one of the hot topics among Malaysians since the outbreak in Sarawak and Perak. In the early of July this year, rabies cases were detected in Serian, Sarawak and some areas in Perak were also declared as ‘rabies outbreak area’. So far, rabies has claimed its fifth victims in Sarawak – the outbreak has attracted widespread attention.

Rabies is an infectious viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain in humans and other mammals. It infects any warm-blooded animal and usually spreads through the bite, scratch and saliva of the infected animal. Therefore, all pet owners should be aware of rabies and protect the pets from the viral disease. Here are some tips to prevent your pooch from getting rabies.

1.Keep Vaccination Up to Date

Keep your pet’s rabies vaccine up to date is the best way to avoid rabies. If the pet is vaccinated, the health risk and financial burden of a pet potentially being exposed to rabies are significantly less. It is an inexpensive way to protect pets and also human. Thus, pet owners are advised to vaccinate their pets against rabies in order to prevent pets acquiring the disease from wild animals, and thereby transmitting it to humans.

The rabies vaccine prevents your pet from developing the virus if it is exposed to the brain tissue or saliva of an infected animal. You can ask your pet’s veterinarian about the vaccination schedule. Following the recommended schedule is very important as it is a method to ensure your pet is constantly protected.

2.Avoid Stray Animals

Another way to protect pets from getting rabies is to keep them inside whenever possible. Make sure all the gates and doors closed at all times to prevent pets wander freely. Keep in mind that minimizing exposure to wild animals can reduce the risk of rabies disease to pets. Pet owners are advised to supervise their dogs when they are outdoors – avoid pets contact with wild animals, whenever dead or alive. There is no way to tell whether or not the wild animals get vaccinated. Thus, your pet could get bitten by a rabid animal and develop rabies.

In addition, don’t let bats enter your home as they are known to carry the rabies virus.

3.Treat Bites Immediately

Consult the veterinarian immediately if your pet is bitten by a wild animal or even comes in contact with the animal. Although there are no any signs of bites or bite marks, it is still necessary to consult the veterinarian as the rabies virus can enter the body through tiny breaks in the skin. A rabies booster shot will be given by the veterinarian to your pet for added protection.